HamComm v3.1

by Wilhelm F. Schröder, call sign: DL5YEC

HamComm is a program for ham radio communications. It supports reception and transmission of radio teletype (RTTY), AMTOR ARQ/FEC, SITOR A/B, NAVTEX and Morse code (CW) signals. A decoder for SHIP and SYNOP reports from weather stations is also included. PACTOR decoding was available with the registered version. [No longer available]

HamComm does not require an RTTY converter, not even a modem chip. The audio output of the transceiver is connected to the serial port of any PC/XT/AT compatible computer thru a very simple low-cost interface. Only one IC is needed (Op-Amp TL071 or similar) and a few diodes, capacitors and resistors. Even easier, use the Pervisell Demodulator.

For transmission a tone signal is available at the COM port which can be connected to the microphone input of the transceiver thru a passive r/c filter. Audio frequency decoding and serial/parallel conversion are all done in software.

HamComm will automatically detect the type of video adapter in use. MDA, CGA, EGA, VGA and Hercules are supported. All graphics routines are written in assembler for speed. No attempt has been made to avoid screen flicker (snow) on cheap CGAs.

HamComm may work to some degree on XT machines, but the graphics displays of the input signal are more fun to watch on an AT-class computer. Nearly all of the functions can also be controlled by using a mouse. A hard disk is recommended but not required. All texts are written in English and the online help system includes the schematics for the interface circuit. It is easier to use the Pervisell Demodulator if you are not a home constructor. There are also predefined standard phrases, a QTH distance/direction calculator and a callsign decoder. Currently about 370KB of free ram is required.

HamComm will probably NOT run under any kind of multitasking software like Windows 3.x/95/NT or OS/2. It needs direct control of the interrupt controller, timer chip and serial I/O hardware.

The Tuning Indicator shown on the right is an invaluable aid. Not only does it ensure quick and accurate tuning for all data modes, but it also helps you find the 1900 Hz centre frequency for you favourite FAX program. Just download the software and try it for 30 days.

HamComm 3.1 and the Pervisell Demodulator are a wonderful combination. Once you have tried them, you just won't be able to resist the Registered Version! [No longer available]

Unofficial HamComm Page (external website)

Documentation: